The basics of bicycle accidents

Bicycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries to vulnerable riders and may also result in death. When a negligent driver has caused a bicycle accident that results in injuries or other harm to the victim, or the victim’s family, victims may be able to pursue a claim for compensation of the damages they have suffered. Damages can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and wrongful death damages, depending on the circumstances.

Drivers are required to exercise due care for the safety of others on the roadways and to obey the rules of the road. When they have failed to do so, they may be considered negligent. If the victim suffers harm, such as in a bicycle accident, the victim may have a claim for damages against the driver based on the driver’s negligence. Drivers may be negligent in a variety of ways including speeding, running a stop sign, drifting into the bike lane or failing to obey other rules of the road or traffic signals and signs.

In Arizona, a party that is also negligent in an accident that resulted in them being harmed can recover compensation for damages up to the full amount of harm they have suffered. Some states limit the recovery of the victim if they are greater than 50 percent at fault, for instance, but Arizona does not follow that rule which ensures victims are compensated to the full extent of the injuries and harm they have suffered.

Victims of bicycle accidents and their families can suffer significant physical, financial and emotional damages which is why the legal process provides options to protect them. It is important for victims to be familiar with their rights and how to exercise them when harmed in a bicycle accident.